While my performance schedule has slowed for the writing of my 5th album, my love of music has never wained. Of course, while I love Muse and Ben Folds, classic Elton John and Queen, here are a few of my favorite bands/musicians that you may not have heard of. Regardless on what type of music you love, you will definitely want to check out these touring bands and send them some love. Tell ‘em Kevin sent you.
Broke City- It is no secret that producer/musician Joel Pack is one of the reasons that my music has gained traction and popularity since he started working with me in 2005. I’m a much better singer/songwriter because of my experience with having worked with him as my producer. What a lot of people may not know is that Joel’s band, Broke City (formerly of Maverick Records), tours and performs constantly. They have several amazing albums on iTunes and their music is both intense and real. Joel’s lyrics and voice are beyond comparison. I would also be remiss if I didn’t take the time to thank Broke City’s drummer, The Rob (who played drums on 3 of my albums) and bass player Brad Verrier (who played bass on 1 of my albums and toured with me for a time). Great guys, all of them. Check ‘em out!
Dean Fields – A couple years back when I went out to Nashville to perform at the world famous Blue Bird Cafe, I had the pleasure to meet and perform with singer/songwriter Dean Fields. Dean, an acoustic guitarist and folk songwriter from the east coast, has a voice like John Mayer and plays the guitar like James Taylor. Bottom line, he is just one of the real good guys making music out there. His stories in his songs are beautiful and his song-writing is deep and meaningful. You’ll love him, especially if you like music that tells a story.
Royal Bliss- I owe Taylor (guitars) and Neal (vocals) from Salt Lake City’s Royal Bliss a lot of gratitude. While working my way as an up-and-coming musician in Utah, Taylor mentored me and booked me for several opening shows at the popular club Liquid Joe’s – the entired band was a source of inspiration and support for me. I have the utmost respect for these guys and wish and hope for their huge success now and in the future. Their new album is available on iTunes and in-stores via Capital Records. Personally, though I love their new album, I still prefer the comfort and memories of the two older Royal Bliss albums I own.
SuperSoFar- Not too long ago, I had the real pleasure of performing in Utah with James (vocals) and SuperSoFar at Salt Lake City’s Huka Bar. Not only are these guys great people, they make great music. James has a unique voice that is unmistakable; and their songs are both accessible and unique. They have several albums available on iTunes and continue to put out radio ready music all over the web. See what you think.
Spencer Nielsen- A few years ago, and as a new solo artist, I stumbled onto Spencer in one of my favorite venues in Salt Lake City, the now defunct “Cabana Club.” He was also a rock pianist, but his style was a little more like Jack Johnson mixed with Eddie Vetter (imagine that). Soon we began to perform together all around Salt Lake City, sometimes sharing a drummer (thanks Dan Pectol) and often switching back and forth between sets. My days with Spencer were a golden time for me – back when things were just fun and when the business side of music was the last thing on my mind. If you haven’t heard his tunes, check him out. You will enjoy him.
Chris Trapper- I discovered Chris Trapper on a podcast that was featuring both him and I, specifically his 2006 song, “I Wish I Was Cool” which I strangely identified with. Chris is a product of Boston, and like me, was originally in bands before breaking off as a solo artist back around 2002/2003. He is an exceptional singer/songwriter who writes songs that are as cool as they are personal.
Opal Hill Drive- One of my last shows out of Utah, before moving to Los Angeles, was a 2 night performance with one of my favorite local Utah bands, Opal Hill Drive. Jedi, the lead singer, handed me a copy of their album before I hit the road and it has been on my regular play-list ever since. Gritty, raw, and real – their music is a reminder that life can be a beautiful challenge. My favorite song of theirs, “I Don’t Wanna Die” is a regular inclusion on mix CDs I make for myself and friends.
Anyway, hope you love the adventures in discovering new music as much as I do. These groups I listed are all comprised of great people and talented artists. Enjoy the musical journey.
Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the crib,
I dropped gift after present to my drummer below
